Osteoporosis is a disease that affects the bones. Individuals with osteoporosis have bones that have become thin and are at increased risk for fracture. While bone loss is a normal part of the aging process, osteoporosis is a treatable condition.

To help women understand osteoporosis and reduce the risks associated with bone loss, The Ripa Center for Women’s Health and Wellness at Cooper is offering a six-week program that provides patient education, exercise, guidance, and self-management. The class begins with a 30-minute lecture on topics relating to osteoporosis and is followed by a one-hour exercise program led by a personal trainer.

The program will cover the following topics: How menopause and age decrease bone formation; understanding how to exercise safely; nutrition for bones — calcium/vitamin D; treatment for osteoporosis; and fracture prevention.

The class will meet from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on six consecutive Thursdays beginning May 18, 2017. The program will be held at The Ripa Center for Women’s Health & Wellness, 6100 Main Street, Voorhees, NJ. The cost to attend is $100. For more information or to register, call 856.673.4912. Online registration is also available at http://events.cooperhealth.org/.